This week’s photo prompt is provided by pixabay.com
“This is no place for you boy. It’s dangerous out there.
One false step and you are no more.
I can’t take you with me today
You wait till I return
I pray to God I do.
I’ll take you home and thank our stars
We made it through another day.”
Two hours later the solder in question stepped on a mine.
The blast ripped through him, it took away his legs, his manhood, his hope.
He lay in agony oblivious to all around him.
He heard the news. Knew his prospects.
Descended into a rightful depression.
His hand was wet; he felt a course tongue against his skin.
The black dog was there, waiting.
The soldier’s thoughts were of home
What would he do?
No was longer a man.
He cried most nights, for himself
For his loss, for the nothing in front of him.
All the while the black dog
Lay there never budging from his side.
Written for: https://flashfictionforaspiringwriters.wordpress.com/2016/03/14/fffaw-week-of-march-15-2016/
Morpethroad 
The picture invites this, but so tragic a story and too true to life. I’m glad the soldier has his dog, perhaps knowing the dog doesn’t care if his legs and more are blown off will help him build a new life for himself. Well written.
Thanks Mandi its an image that ties you into something tragic doesn’t. Be interesting to see how others perceive it. Thanks for stopping in, have a good evening….
This is so heartbreaking and also heartwarming. He feels he has nothing left and the dog lets him know he does. Dogs truly are man’s best friend. I loved this, Michael.
Thank you Joy, the image learnt itself to that sort of response….
Yes, it did. I do hope we get some happy stories though.
I’m sure we will Joy….
Thank you, Michael.
Heartwarming story… what faithfulness, what devotion!
Thank you Shivangi, I appreciate you reading and your comment..
Lovely story and so true of this bond.
Thank you Sam for stopping by, hoping you are having a good afternoon…
I am lazing on the couch working on a short story. How bout you?
I’m doing fine, answering comments and about to take my son to an appointment.
Drive safe!!
This story pierces the heart, both with sadness and admiration. Your vivid descriptions make us ‘see’ the scenes you have painted with your words. 🙂
Painful, and true! Dogs really have that kind of loyalty.
This is a tragic story, but that the same time it is heartwarming that the dog is there for him.
It is indeed Angie, thanks for stopping by.
At least he has a special friend to help him through.
Visit Keith’s Ramblings!
Yes indeed, thanks Keith..
Beautifully told, Micheal 🙂
Thank you Lori, appreciate you stopping by always, next time I’ll have the kettle on…
Any time, Michael.. and I would adore a spot of tea with you!
A dog is the symbol of loyalty and friendship. Dogs and dog stories never fail to impress me
Thank you so much for stopping by to comment.
The tragdey of war. Men come back but always different. At least, his dog would always be the same. I’m sure it will help him heal. Nice write ….
Isadora 😎
Thank you Isadora appreciate you stopping by…
A deep and wounded soldier. Thank God for the dog. He could be the key to healing!
Such a sad story, Michael
It is Cheryl-Lynn, thanks for stopping by…
That is just painful.
Yes indeed. Thanks for stopping by.
With a friend there by his side… he will find his future.
One hopes so Roger. Best wishes for your Easter….Michael.